Retail chain store Carrefour has launched a self-checkout service in its Nairobi Westgate mall store as it steps to boost customers’ shopping experience.
The service allows customers to shop and complete purchases without the assistance of cashiers at the cash counter. To access the service, customers can click ‘Start’ on the self-checkout counter’s digital screen.
They will then be required to scan their items using the barcode reader and complete the purchase by tapping on ‘Finish & Pay.’ They will then fill in their payment option.
to use the new Carrefour Self check out Service system.
The self-checkout lane accepts cashless payment options, including Mpesa, debit or credit cards, and MyCLUB loyalty points.
Those paying via Mpesa will be required to fill in the number that will be used for payment, after which a prompt message will be sent to their phones to complete the transaction.
The service, which is the first of its kind to launch in the Kenyan market, will play a significant role in solving the challenge of long queues witnessed in major shopping outlets, hence saving time.
“The self-checkout service underlines our ongoing commitment to creating seamless shopping experiences for all our customers through adopting global best practices and solutions. The innovative service will allow customers greater freedom, control, and convenience while shopping.” Said Christophe Orcet, Regional Director – East Africa, Majid Al Futtaim Retail.
Read: Carrefour opens first branch in Nairobi CBD
However, it will only be utilized by shoppers shopping for less than 15 items. According to Mr. Christophe, the service will soon be rolled out in all Carrefour stores in the country following a successful pilot, after which awareness will be created.
Consumers will also be trained on how to scan and complete transactions using the new technology. Carrefour currently boasts 19 stores countrywide, with 15 located in Nairobi, while Kisumu and Mombasa are home to 2 stores each.
‘’We are launching here and then deploying in other stores in the country, knowing that for the time being, we are testing. This is the first need to understand how the customers will react. It may be difficult and complicated at the beginning,’’ added Christophe.
Christophe also unveiled plans to introduce other new technologies in the country, such as a Scan& Go mobile service. The Scan&Go service will allow Carrefour customers to use their smartphones to scan, bag purchases, and checkout on their own.
According to the 2019 Grand View Research report, the demand for self-checkout systems is expected to increase with a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 13.3 percent in marketplace value between 2020 and 2027.